Pensionado — the retiree visa
Panama's Pensionado is widely considered one of the world's most generous retirement programs, and it grants permanent residency from approval (typically 3–6 months). The core requirement is a guaranteed lifetime pension of at least US$1,000 per month — reduced to US$750 if you own Panamanian real estate worth over US$100,000 — plus US$250/month for each dependent. Qualifying government or corporate pensions (US Social Security, the Canada Pension Plan, military or state pensions) are accepted.
Beyond residency, Pensionado holders receive legally-mandated Law 6 discounts of 25–50% on flights, healthcare and medications, dining, entertainment and more. If you are retiring, start with our retire-in-Panama guide.
Qualified Investor Visa
The fast track for buyers: a qualifying real-estate investment of US$300,000 or more grants immediate permanent residency, with processing usually inside 30–90 days and a route to naturalization after five years. The investment must be held for at least five years. It is the cleanest way to convert a purchase you were going to make anyway into a second residency — with your residency and your property secured in a single step.
Other routes
Professionals from certain countries may qualify under the Friendly Nations visa, and there are self-solvency (rentista) options based on fixed deposits. These are more situational; we will point you to the right one for your profile rather than sell you the most expensive.
Frequently asked questions
Does buying property automatically give me residency?
No — but a qualifying purchase of US$300,000 or more lets you apply for the Qualified Investor Visa, which grants permanent residency. Ownership alone does not.
Does the property have to be new, or can it be resale?
Either can qualify, provided the titled real-estate investment meets the US$300,000 minimum and is held in your name (or an approved structure) for at least five years. Your attorney confirms the property and title qualify before you commit.
Can I include my spouse and children?
Yes. Dependents can be included on both the Pensionado and investor routes; the Pensionado adds a modest monthly-income requirement per dependent.
How long until I can apply for citizenship?
Generally five years of permanent residency, subject to language and other requirements. Panama permits dual citizenship in practice for many nationals; confirm with counsel.
Sources & last updated
Figures reflect published 2026 data and are indicative; laws and market conditions change. Verify specifics with a licensed Panamanian attorney or tax advisor before acting.